PRODUCERS’ PROTEST

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 115, 10 February 1944, Page 4

PRODUCERS’ PROTEST

Apparently Not Consulted About Meat Rationing (By Telegraph.—Press Association.l DUNEDIN, February 9. A meeting of farmers, graziers and stock agents in Dunedin today discussed the reply received from the Economic Stabilization Commission by the South Island Fat Stock Committee on behalf of all interests. The commission’s reply was to the effect that no in crease in wholesale or retail prices of meat, would be considered by the commission. Qn the subject of meat rationing, the following resolution was adopted: “At this representative meeting of farmers, graziers and stock agents to discuss marketing problems in relation to beef, mutton and lamb, the strongest possible exception is taken to the action of the Government in drawing up a meat rationing scheme in consultation with the butchers without apparently consulting authorized representatives of the primary producers, who would be expected to supply stock and may have to accept reduced prices. In the .opinion of the meeting, the whole object of rationing will be defeated if the producers do r not get a payable price, as production of beef in the South Island will still further diminish. The meeting strongly urges that producers' representatives be included in the discussions, even nt this Into date.”